How to Cut James Hardie Trim Board

When building a new home the most visible parts are the exterior siding and trim. Recently, a new type of siding and trim has come to market that is made of concrete: Hardie Siding and Trim. These two products are from the James Hardie Company. While they are said to outlast traditional wood siding, and present a more traditional wood siding look, they are very different from any other siding or trim product on the market. When it comes to cutting these products, the process is the same for both the trim and the siding.

Things You'll Need

Compound miter saw

HardieBlade saw blade

Pencil

Tape measure

Dust mask-fine particulate is best

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Install the HardiBlade saw blade in the saw. This blade is specifically designed to cut all of the James Hardi cement fiber board products. The product can also be cut with a traditional diamond saw blade as well; however, it is not recommended because it will produce too much dust. Install the blade as per manufacturers instructions.

Measure the area where the trim piece will go. It is important to measure correctly because Hardie trim is installed before the siding.

Mark the piece of trim to cut. Make sure to double check the measurement and mark. It is easier to cut off a second time then put back on after a wrong cut.

Place the trim in the saw and adjust the saw to create the proper angle for the desired cut. Make sure to put on the dust mask before starting the saw.

Cut the trim board with the saw. Make sure to go slower than with a normal blade and wood; the Hardi Blade only has four teeth. Keep a firmer grip on the board than with regular wood.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure to use the correct saw blade for the Hardie Trim boards.

Goggles will help to keep dust out of the eyes.

Dust masks should be worn at all times while cutting this material.

Make sure to follow all manufacturers instructions for operating the saw.